Bird watching in Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park is a unique and scenic destination in northern Tanzania. The park is dominated by the expansive Lake Manyara, which is a landmark that provides a crucial source of water for the park’s diverse wildlife and birds.

Birding in Lake Manyara

More than 400 species have been recorded, the park supports a big array of water-associated birds, including pelicans. When the water level is right, thousands of pink-hued flamingos flock to the lake to breed and feed. More than 50 species of birds of prey have been recorded including crowned eagle and African hawk-eagle. Migratory birds are present from November to April and some of the forest birds include the Silvery-cheeked Hornbill, Narina Trogon, Crowned Hornbill, Schalow’s Turaco, Emerald Cuckoo, Crowned Eagle and Crested Guineafowl.

When to go

The short rainy season from November to December is a particularly good time for bird watching, as the park’s bird population is at its peak during this period. The wet season from March to May can be more challenging for wildlife viewing as vegetation is denser and wildlife more scattered.